Ahhh the eternal questions of the beauty treatment arena. Do you wear underwear during a Brazilian wax? Are therapists offended if you fall asleep during a massage? Do you have to warn your beautician if you’re pregnant?
We’ve all had moments of confusion when entering through the hallowed salon doors. You’ll be pleased to know you are alone on that. We give you the 411 on salon etiquette to have you up-to-date and acting appropriately.
Sometimes we feel cautious about our relationships with our beauty therapists. They know intimate details about us and yet, unlike with our medical professionals where there’s an expectation of confidentiality and freedom of communication, the therapist/client relationship is less clear cut.
If I prefer a female therapist as opposed to a male, can I say so?
It’s perfectly acceptable if you don’t feel comfortable with a male therapist – and the customer is always right! A client is usually asked when they make the booking if they are happy to be assigned a male therapist. Everyone has different comfort levels and the salon’s main aim is for you to feel comfortable, so feel free to say you would feel more comfortable with a female.
I really don’t feel like talking, can I tell my therapist to stop?
Telling your therapist to be quiet may sound rude, but as long as you mind your manner it is perfectly acceptable and they will take a subtle hint. A polite line about looking forward to zoning out with relaxing treatment today should suffice.
Should I get naked for a spray tan?
Some salons will advise you that they don’t mind if you go completely nude to avoid tan lines. All salons should provide a disposable g-string for anyone who doesn’t want to get tan on their own underwear. The reason some salons require you to wear some type of underwear is for hygiene and protection reasons. You’re obviously welcome to wear your own underwear, bearing in mind it will leave a tan mark.
Should I turn off my mobile?
A no-brainer! If you or anyone else are having relaxing treatments within earshot, it is good manners to turn off your phone so as not to detract from the salon experience.
What should I do if I’m late?
Being on time for your appointment is basic manners. If you need to cancel or change an appointment, its customary to give 24 hours notice. However, if you’re stuck in traffic ring to say you are still on your way and be prepared to have the time deducted from your treatment time. Alternatively, the salon may be able to move around appointments to ensure your therapist has enough time to give a thorough treatment.
Is there etiquette involved in showering prior to a treatment?
There is always some sheepishness involved in coming direct from a long day at work, but such appointments are expected with our busy schedules. If you are able to shower prior to treatments such as bikini waxes it will make both of you feel more comfortable, but this isn’t always practical. Simple and obvious courtesy such as showering if coming straight from a work out or class certainly apply though. Sweat and body odour after exercise isn’t pleasant for anyone involved
What type of underwear should I wear for my wax?
Granny undies aren’t very glamorous but it’s not the done thing to wear your sexy underwear either. Choose a pair with an appropriate cut for your wax – if it’s just a general bikini higher cut briefs are fine, if it’s a g-string wax a simple cotton g-string. Many salons offer disposable underwear. Many beauticians prefer no underwear for a Brazilian wax, but they will advise you in preparation for your treatment whether nothing or a disposable g-string is preferred.
Should I do something about an embarrassing bikini line prior to my wax?
It’s not a case of suffering judgment from your therapist – believe me they’ve seen it all. This is entirely up to you, however if you’re waxing it will be less painful and quicker if your hair is shorter, a quick trim might be advisable. If the therapist has to do the trim it may cost you more due to the extra time needed.
Is it okay to fall asleep during a treatment?
Some therapists will actually take it as a compliment! Massage, body and facial treatments are for pampering and relaxing. If you fall asleep it’s this a sign you are truly relaxed and enjoying the treatment.
What should I do if I pass wind during a massage?
It does happen, massage places pressure on areas of the body that are precarious when it comes to wind. Its more a case of what should you do to ease the embarrassment. If this happens it is acceptable to simply apologise to the therapist once and put it to the back of your mind.
What do they need to know?
You should advise your therapist about any existing health conditions that may influence the course of the treatment. In particular any medical conditions – such as high or low blood pressure, recent surgical procedures, any medications you are on, and if you are pregnant.
